This comforting Dairy-Free Chicken Noodle Soup is warm and filling! It’s packed with tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and cozy noodles, all in a tasty broth.
Whenever I make this soup, the whole house smells amazing! Plus, it’s perfect for chilly days or when you need a little pick-me-up. I like to throw in extra veggies for a colorful twist!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil: This adds healthy fats and flavor to the soup. You can substitute with coconut oil or avocado oil if needed. I prefer olive oil for its light taste and health benefits.
Chicken Broth: Choose a store-bought or homemade chicken broth that’s marked dairy-free. Vegetable broth also works well for a lighter version. I love making my own broth for extra flavor.
Noodles: I use egg-free noodles for a dairy-free option. Rice noodles or chickpea pasta are great alternatives for a gluten-free twist. Choose whichever you have on hand!
Shredded Chicken: Rotisserie chicken is super convenient for this recipe. You can use leftover chicken or poach your chicken breast in broth for added flavor. I always have a stash of cooked chicken in the freezer!
How Do I Make Sure My Vegetables Are Tender Without Overcooking Them?
Cooking vegetables just right can be tricky. Here’s how to do it perfectly:
- Start by sautéing onions, celery, and carrots together in olive oil. This method helps them soften without losing their shape and flavor. Keep the heat moderate!
- Check them around the 5-7 minute mark. You want them tender but still vibrant.
- Add garlic last; it cooks faster and can burn easily. Give it just a minute before adding the broth.
Dairy-Free Chicken Noodle Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 celery stalks, finely diced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 cups chicken broth (dairy-free)
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie or poached chicken breast)
- 4 oz egg-free or regular noodles (dairy-free pasta such as rice or chickpea noodles can be used)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley (plus extra fresh parsley for garnish)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Salt to taste
- Fresh lemon juice (optional, for brightness)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious soup takes about 15 minutes to prep and another 20-25 minutes to cook, giving you a total of around 40 minutes to enjoy a warm bowl of goodness!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion, diced celery, and diced carrots. Sauté these vegetables for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they’re tender and fragrant.
2. Add the Garlic:
Next, stir in the minced garlic and continue to cook for another minute. You want the garlic to become fragrant, but be careful not to let it brown as it can get a bitter taste.
3. Bring It to a Boil:
Pour in the chicken broth and crank up the heat to bring it all to a boil. Enjoy the delightful aroma that fills your kitchen!
4. Simmer with Chicken and Herbs:
Once it reaches a boil, reduce the heat to a simmer and add in the shredded chicken, dried thyme, dried parsley, salt, and black pepper. Let it simmer for about 10 minutes to allow all those wonderful flavors to combine.
5. Cook the Noodles:
Add the noodles to the pot and cook according to the package instructions, usually around 5-7 minutes, until they are tender. Stir occasionally to keep them from sticking.
6. Final Adjustments:
Taste your soup and adjust the seasoning if needed. If you’d like a zesty boost, squeeze in a little fresh lemon juice just before serving.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Ladle the warm soup into bowls and sprinkle fresh chopped parsley on top for a nice touch. Enjoy your wholesome, dairy-free chicken noodle soup hot!
Can I Use Vegetable Broth Instead of Chicken Broth?
Absolutely! Using vegetable broth is a great option if you want a lighter flavor or if you’re looking to make the soup vegetarian. Just make sure it’s labeled dairy-free!
What Noodles Can I Use for This Soup?
You can use any egg-free noodles or dairy-free pasta, such as rice noodles or chickpea pasta. Whole wheat pasta works too, just check the label to ensure it’s dairy-free.
How to Store Leftovers Properly?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The noodles may soak up some broth, so if it gets too thick when reheating, feel free to add a splash of broth or water.
Can I Add More Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like peas, green beans, or spinach. Just add them in the last few minutes of cooking so they stay bright and tender!
